Due in large part to your cooperation, understanding, and quick response, thankfully, yesterday's incident did not result in serious injury or loss of life.  Fires present a very real and serious threat to the safety of building occupants.  In this fire let me assure you that the safety features of the building worked as designed to both signal warning of the fire and suppress it.

I understand that some of the water from the sprinkler system discharge, unfortunately, has caused damage to some university and personal property.  Please know that I sympathize with you as you temporarily deal with this unpleasant situation.  However, as I'm sure you will agree, a wet building is preferable to one with extensive fire damage and casualties.  Property damaged by fire or water can be replaced.  You, our students, cannot be replaced.

As we continue to assess the impact of this incident, I have asked for a review process to be established so that we may consider hardship requests from Bromley Hall students for reimbursement for damaged or lost personal property.  You will be receiving more information about this process in the next several days from staff in the Vice President for Student Affairs area.

I want to inform you that the University does not carry fire or other hazard insurance on students' personal property.  Most parent homeowner insurance policies provide some coverage for personal property away from the primary residence including places such as a student residence hall.  Alternatively, renter's insurance may cover personal property with liability protection.  I encourage you to check with your own insurance carrier. 

I am sorry for any inconvenience you may be experiencing but relieved we are cleaning and drying out from water and not burned debris or loss of life.  Please know that you are in my thoughts. 

Kindest regards,

Roderick J. McDavis

President